manoeuvrable

Manoeuvrable is an adjective in British English used to describe something that can be steered or moved with ease, enabling it to change direction quickly or operate effectively in confined or complex environments. It is commonly applied to vehicles, vessels, aircraft, robotics, and machinery, as well as to objects or systems designed for agile handling.

The term derives from the verb manoeuvre, from Old French manœuvrer, with the suffix -able indicating capability. In American English, the equivalent spelling is maneuverable, and the noun form is maneuverability.

In technical and everyday usage, manoeuvrable characterizes ease of control and responsiveness. For example, a car with a short turning radius is described as highly manoeuvrable, a drone with precise flight control as highly manoeuvrable, and a ship with a flexible rudder as having good manoeuvrability. The concept is important in design considerations for safety, efficiency, and performance in tight spaces or during complex operations.

Related terms include maneuverability (the noun form), manoeuvre (the verb and noun in British usage), and steerability, which focuses specifically on the ability to be directed by a control input. See also agility, flexibility, and control responsiveness in engineering and vehicle design.